Clearance Sale time!

Time to clear out the cottage! I'm starting a "SALE" section in my Etsy shop for all interested parties. LOL I plan to add to this section over the next week, so keep a look out! www.ajscountrycottage.etsy.com Look for the section called "SALE" :) :)

Spring is finally here!

My flower bulbs are popping up left and right! Purple and white crocus are already spent. Golden daffodils and jonquils are nearly gone. Pink tulips burst forth just yesterday. The redbud tree, Bradford pears and forsythia bushes appear to be in a fierce competition to see who's the showiest. The only drawback to spring is the brevity of the blooms; I suppose that's why we cherish them so much.

Over the winter, I crocheted and knitted like a madwoman. I've got heaps of shawls, throws, and whatnots made. I took up beading as well. I'm now sporting not one but FIVE pretty new necklaces! I double crimped, hoping and praying that these creations stay put. I'm still a rookie and a bit of a one-trick pony, but I will soon come up with some different styles with any luck!

I also made some new candles for spring. My daughter & son both have new kittens. Such a joyous time of year! Must get pictures.

Computer Blues

Why, oh WHY do we get so dependent on our pc's? Mine crashed a few weeks ago. Fortunately, it was under warranty, so back it went for repairs. Was PC-less for weeks. (Oh, the horrors.) On the plus side, I've been able to get some organizational projects done around the house, spend some great time with family, and even got some knitting for MYSELF done! That's a real change; generally I'm knitting / crocheting for everyone else. :) Just finished a gray shawl for myself so I can toss it around my shoulders while reading in bed or watching a movie. Crossing my fingers for sunshine tomorrow so I can take a picture!

May your winter season be peaceful and relaxing. But NOT pc-less. :D

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR

Had some CRAZY weather this Christmas, but at least it was WHITE! Driving in ice and snow - not fun. Serious nail-biter. But being together with family for the holidays is priceless.

My family is nuts. But I'm going to stick with them for another year, I think. ;) May you be blessed with a prosperous and healthful new year!

Easy Spicy Soup

I threw together a soup tonight w/ 2 cans broth, 1 can beans, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1/2 lb. cubed ham, salt and special seasoning. (1/4 tsp. of Slap Ya Mama, to be exact.)

Got rave reviews from the family. Go figure. Sometimes I shock even myself.

GARLIC MUSTARD POTATOES

When we make these, they get scarfed up FAST!

6 med. potatoes (2 lb), cut into cubes/chunks
5 TBL. fancy prepared mustard - spicy, brown, dijon - whatever you like
2 TBL. olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
salt to taste

Mix all ingredients except potatoes. Then toss potato chunks into the mixture to coat. Put potatoes on lightly greased cookie sheet and roast in 425 degree oven for about 40 min., stirring occasionally. Done when fork tender.

CYBER MONDAY!

Like many Etsy sellers, I'm involved in the Cyber Monday sale by offering free lip balms with purchase. In addition, I had to take a silly photo of myself holding my product for an Etsy promotional. Boy did I feel like an idiot, and my daughter certainly thought I was a dork as she snapped one goofy expression after another. But if it helps my sales, well...so be it! I'll be a fool then. haha My sale details are posted in my Etsy shop.

The KC Etsy team, of which I'm a member, is also sponsoring a Cyber Monday sale. Details are on our blog. KC Etsy Team's Blog